Certificate IV in Science
The Certificate IV in Science is primarily a preparatory qualification which will enable those who successfully complete to apply for a university degree in the field of science and technology.
Duration
12 months full-time or equivalent part-time
Intakes
Hawthorn (March, August) - View application and start dates
Study modes
- Full-time,
- Part-time (day)
VTAC course code
- 3400277024 (fee type determined by provider)

This is a nationally approved vocational course that is recognised throughout Australia.
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
The Certificate IV in Science is designed as a further education preparatory program and qualifies individuals to apply a broad range of scientific skills and knowledge in varied contexts and as a pathway for further learning, such as the Diploma of Laboratory Technology, Bachelor of Science. Those who complete the course will have a broad knowledge and skills to progress to a specialised field of learning such as applied science, engineering or biotechnology.
Course structure
To be eligible for the award of the Certificate IV in Science, students are required to complete the 15 units listed below.
Units of study
Core units
Participate in laboratory/field workplace safety (MSL943002)
Apply essential further study skills for science (VU23268)
Research scientific fields of study (VU23269)
Use a range of techniques to solve mathematical problems (VU23270)
Apply mathematical techniques to scientific contexts (VU23271)
Elective units
Investigate atomic structure and bonding (VU23272)
Investigate stoichiometry and solution chemistry (VU23273)
Investigate organic chemistry and properties of materials (VU233274)
Investigate chemical reactions (VU23275)
Investigate waves and optics (VU23276)
Apply principles of kinematics (VU23277)
Investigate cell biology (VU23281)
Investigate anatomy and physiology (VU23282)
Investigate introductory genetics (VU23283)
Work mathematically with statistics and calculus (VU23285)
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Although primarily designed as a further education preparatory program, this course may also prepare those who apply for entry level positions in suitable industry sector workplaces in the field of science, food, health and technology.
Aims and objectives
The Certificate IV in Science is particularly suited to those who have not obtained the equivalent of a Year 12 pass or wish to change career paths, not having studied sciences previously. Further study may include laboratory technology, nursing, biotechnology, food technology, health, engineering, environmental and other related courses.

Graduate skills
Completion of this course will enable individuals to possess a basic understanding of scientific principles across a range of discipline areas (chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, genetics and research skills), including practical skills to adequately prepare them for university level courses.
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
Certificate IV in ScienceEstimated course fees for 2023* |
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---|---|---|---|
Course fee options | Full course fee | Skills First Government-subsidised place | Concession rate |
Total Cost (GST Free) | $12,280 | $5,980 | $1,196 |
Fees published on this page are estimates only and are subject to change depending on individual circumstances at the time of enrolment. The above fees apply for units studied in 2023 only and may change for units studied in future years. There may be additional costs related to learning material and equipment.
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
Skills First Government-subsidised place
You could be granted a Skills First government-subsidised place when you apply for this course. Check your eligibility now.
You could be granted a Skills First government-subsidised place when you apply for this course. Check your eligibility now.
Concession rates for vocational students
You may be entitled to apply for a fee concession if you meet the eligibility criteria.
The eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed by Swinburne in accordance with government directives, which are subject to change at any time.
Find out if you're eligible for a fee concession here.
You may be entitled to apply for a fee concession if you meet the eligibility criteria.
The eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed by Swinburne in accordance with government directives, which are subject to change at any time.
Find out if you're eligible for a fee concession here.
Full course fee
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
Indicative nominal course hours: 760.
How to apply
Find out more about how to apply.
Find out more
Submit an online enquiry
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE
Email: study@swinburne.edu.au
Training Organisation Identifier (TOID): 3059